When should I apply for the volunteer/internship programs in Tanzania?

Global Crossroad has been running volunteer/internship programs in Tanzania for more than three years. We are able to offer placements on the first and third Monday of each month year round. Because of the increasing volume of applications, participants are requested to apply at least two- three months in advance , but if you want to expedite your application within less than three months of time, please contact our office for more information.

What happens once I submit my documents and application to Global Crossroad?

Once Global Crossroad receives and reviews your completed application, it is then forwarded to our In-Country Coordinator in Tanzania who will then finalize a specific placement as per your qualifications and request. Upon receipt of your finalized placement details, this information is then immediately sent to you.

How long does it take to process my application?

The application process can usually take anywhere from 2-3 weeks – occasionally longer (given the time of year). However, in the event that interested participants require their application expedited due to time constraints, they are requested to contact Global Crossroad's offices prior to submitting their application.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Usually, the only documentation required is the completed application form which can be found online ( http://www.globalcrossroad.com/apply.php ). Applicants have the option to either submit their application online or download the application from the website and submit the completed form to Global Crossroad's USA-based offices either by post or fax.

Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the Tanzania-based volunteer programs?

The only qualifications are:

• An open mind and a willingness to teach others as well a passion for helping those in need.

• Enthusiasm for living abroad and meeting new people.

• Be in good health.

Visa Information

A 3 month tourist visa is usually approximately $50 (USD) and available at Tanzanian airports and consulates. It is highly recommended that all participants resolve all visa-related issues prior to arriving in Tanzania to avoid any delays at immigration. Volunteers staying for longer terms may require a “Class C” permit ($120 PLUS a $40 processing fee). Global Crossroad strongly suggests volunteers get their visa in their respective home country to avoid problems and delays at the airport. Visit www.projectvisa.com for more information.

Global Crossroad suggests that ALL volunteers acquire the appropriate visa in their home country BEFORE arriving in-country to avoid any unnecessary hassles at the airport.

Project Information

Who manages the volunteer projects in Tanzania ?

Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Tanzania is responsible for researching appropriate volunteer projects as per the qualifications and skills of the applicants.

What are the daily schedules of the projects?

Project schedules vary for each project in Tanzania . Most projects are from Monday to Friday for 5-6 hours a day. Most volunteers have the weekends off to sight-see or explore Tanzania on their own.

Where are the projects located?

Most of the projects are located in or around Dar Es Salaam , Arusha, Masai land and other areas outside of the above-mentioned locations.

Dar Es Salaam is a town on the eastern edge of Africa on the Indian Ocean , making it a major trade center. Its population is growing at an amazing pace, putting it in the top 10 fastest growing cities in the world! Right now 2.5 million people live in Dar Es Salaam (Arabic for “Haven of Peace”), making it a major metropolis that comes alive with bustling street vendors, musicians, tourists, and business people. The city is a fascinating series of contradictions, from its Islamic influences to its western-style malls, to its world-class museums.

Arusha is a beautiful, quaint city that sits below the great Mount Meru . Because of its breathtaking location, the city relies in large part on tourism revenue from the safaris that often begin and end in the city. Agriculture – especially flowers – also plays a part in the local business. The city is greatly loved by many, mostly because of its friendly atmosphere, awesome scenery, and blossoming cultural scene – Tanzanian hip-hop is world famous!

What is the language spoken in Tanzania ?

The official language of Tanzania is Swahili, though some people speak English.

When are the Tanzania-based projects available?

Volunteer projects begin on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month throughout the year. Volunteers arriving early will need to pay for additional nights of accommodation. Global Crossroad suggests that volunteers adjust their flight schedule according to their project/program itinerary.

How long can I volunteer in Tanzania ?

We normally suggest participants volunteer from 2-12 weeks.

Arrival and Departure Information

Who will arrange my flight to Tanzania ?

Airfare is the responsibility of the volunteer.

Which airport should I book my flight into?

You should fly into the Dar Es Salaam International Airport terminal, or the Kilimanjaro Airport in Arusha, depending on where your program is located.

When should I arrive in Tanzania ?

Volunteers should arrive in Tanzania the day before their projects start, which is usually on a Sunday. If you come in earlier to Tanzania , you will need to arrange a place to stay and a return to the airport on Sunday to be picked up.

Will someone pick me from the airport? If so, how do I know about the person?

You will be picked up at your final destination, but you must send your travel itinerary to our Tanzanian in-country Coordinator and to us at Global Crossroad before your arrival in Tanzania (we'll pass it on to the Coordinator). You will be picked up by a staff member or our in-country coordinator who will be holding a sign with your name written on it, awaiting your arrival outside of the airport. In case no one is there, you can call our in-country coordinator, who can help with the picking-up or arrange the accommodations immediately. You will be supplied with all contact information in-case of the rare instance that you are not picked up. Make sure you look carefully for your pick-up, as it will be extremely busy outside of the airport.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

• Try to call our Tanzanian in-country Coordinator from the airport and inform him of the possibly-delayed arrival time.

• Check your placement instructions pertaining to details of hotels that have been recommended for late arrival if your flight is to arrive after midnight;

• Call/email our Tanzanian in-country Coordinator once you arrive so that he can help with a pick-up accordingly.

How can I get to the hotel from the airport if I did not see Global Crossroad's local representative in the airport?

In the event that your arrival time is changed/delayed, requiring you to stay overnight in a hotel (or if you failed to meet Global Crossroad's representative at the airport), you should hire a taxi at the airport who will take you to a hotel designated in your placement details/pre-departure information (and do remember to request a receipt from the driver). ALSO: make sure that you call Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator BEFORE boarding the taxi. Participants are advised to contact Global Crossroad's Tanzania In-Country Coordinator the next day and let him/her know their whereabouts.

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

• Please make sure that you pack all your necessary documents (Passport, clothes, and documents)

• Prepare financially, in advance, to cover various expenses up to $50 USD/week for extra expenses and travel to your project each day.

• Get your mind and spirit ready for the duration you have committed to, as the cultural shock might be so strong that you may even want to quit the next week after arrival.  

If I want to arrive earlier than when the program begins, where do I stay and who will organize the accommodations?

You can arrive several days earlier or even up to a week early for your project, however, you will be responsible for these arrangements (including accommodations and food), and must still meet the Coordinator at the airport on the designated date.

When should I depart from Tanzania ?

We ask participants to depart from Tanzania on the Sunday after their project is completed.

Which airport will I fly out of?

Volunteers must fly out of the Dar Es Salaam Airport or Kilimanjaro Airport (Arusha), according to where they were placed.

Who will drop me off at the airport?

Global Crossroad does not offer an airport drop-off/return service. You will need to arrange a taxi or bus ride to the airport after your project is finished. This is an easy process and our in-country coordinator in Tanzania or your home stay family will be more than happy to assist you with this.

Can I store my luggage if I arrive earlier than my program starts?

Yes, you may, but please note that this service is usually charged and/or calculated on an hourly basis. So, do not leave your luggage at the airport for an extended amount of time.

Living Accommodations Information

Who will arrange my accommodations and what are they?

Global Crossroad arranges the accommodations. The living conditions of your placement will vary, depending on the area to which you are assigned. One should not expect luxurious accommodations in Tanzania . The living conditions are very basic. In Dar Es Salaam and Tengeru villages, volunteers live in private houses. There will be a maximum of 3 volunteers live in one room. In Masai lands volunteers live in Masai mbomas (huts). In some cases, they'll be in camping conditions.

Are singles rooms available?

Depending on availability, rooms may be shared or private, and bathrooms are generally shared.

If I arrive with my friend, or girlfriend/boyfriend, can we stay together?

Contact our office about this issue, since it may depend upon individual circumstances, but we will try our best to put you together.

Will there be other foreign volunteers/interns at my placement?

This depends on the exact placement and your preference in this issue. If you want to travel with others, we allow people to come with a friend or even as a group. You may be placed in different homes, but these homes will be located within one to two miles of each other. In addition, we can place any volunteer near another volunteer already working in the field. Please be reminded that two different genders of volunteers are not allowed to stay in the same house unless they are a married couple.

What are the bathroom facilities?

There is generally a facility for showering but no hot water.

What are the laundry arrangements?

This really depends on your placement. In a city, you'll be able to go to a Laundromat or pay to have your laundry done. In villages or more rural areas, you'll probably need to hand wash your clothes.

Can I use appliances if I bring them from my home country?

Yes. Electricity in Tanzania is 230 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. You will require a voltage converter if you are carrying a device that does not accept these specifications.

Electrical plug details

or

What are the local cuisines? Who manages food?

Global Crossroad manages food and accommodation from the very first day to the last day of the program in collaboration with the local host families involved. What is Tanzanian food like?

Produce is often of very high quality. Meat and milk can be difficult for Western digestive systems, so be sure that all meat is cooked through. At hotels, you will not have any trouble, but if you venture into small villages, make sure that all water is filtered or boiled before drinking, and all fruits and vegetables are peeled before eating. Local dishes include Mtori , cooked beef and bananas, and Mchicha , a vegetable stew which can also contain meat or fish. If anything can be called Tanzania 's national dish Ugali would most likely win out. A polenta-style dish made with corn flour, it accompanies a variety of stews, cooked meat and is eaten with your hands. Recipes vary from village to village and everyone has their own way of making it. Many foreigners find it bland and unappealing but it's worth a try, and some upscale establishments serve it.

Source: www.wikitravel.org

Can you supply special diets?

Global Crossroad can provide both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Occasionally, in the event that you require a special diet, you are responsible for your own meals. Participants are strongly urged to inform Global Crossroad of any special dietary need prior to arrival in-country.

Is the running tap water safe for drink?

The Tanzanian tap water is generally not safe to drink. We recommend that you purchase bottled water for your consumption, but make sure that the cap's seal is not broken! You can request that your host family boil water for you each day to consume.

Are there hot and cold water facilities available?

Specifics pertaining to availability of hot water will be included in participants' placement details.

Will bottled water be provided?

No, if participants require bottled water, they are responsible for obtaining it themselves.

Health and Safety

How safe is Tanzania ?

Tanzania is a safe country, and you can relax while you are there. That being said, it's still important to use common sense. You should be careful not to “act like a tourist,” for example, obviously looking at maps, wearing a camera, or flaunting expensive cloths, jewelry, or electronic devices.

• Be careful if traveling on buses, as petty theft is common.

• Ask for a receipt when you store your backpack or luggage.

• Do NOT carry your passport or any credit cards and cash that you will not need.

• Use only registered taxis.

• Do not walk into unknown areas by yourself at night.

•Always show a lot of respect of authoritarian figures, because though Tanzania is safe by African standard, the police are known to be corrupt in some cases.

More about Travel Safety to Tanzania

International travel does present risks, especially with the threat of international terrorism. The U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings and advisories in many countries for U.S. travelers. These travel advisories and warnings change frequently as situations in each country change. We suggest that all volunteers consult their own governments before participating in a Global Crossroad program. These links provide travel information:

British Foreign Office Advice
http://www.fco.gov.uk/

American State Department Advice
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html

Australian Government Advice
http://www.dfat.gov.au/

Canadian Government Advice
http://canada.gc.ca/main_e.html

What are the principle health risks?

Please refer to the Center for Disease Control website for traveler's health recommendations ( www.cdc.gov). Your travel doctor will be knowledgeable about current epidemics and should be consulted.

Recommended Vaccinations and Preventive Medications

The following vaccines may be recommended for your travel to East Africa . Discuss your travel plans and personal health with a health-care provider to determine which vaccines you will need.

• Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG). Transmission of hepatitis A virus can occur through direct person-to-person contact; through exposure to contaminated water, ice, or shellfish harvested in contaminated water; or from fruits, vegetables, or other foods that are eaten uncooked and that were contaminated during harvesting or subsequent handling.
• Hepatitis B , especially if you might be exposed to blood or body fluids (for example, health-care workers), have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment. Hepatitis B vaccine is now recommended for all infants and for children ages 11–12 years who did not receive the series as infants.
• Malaria: your risk of malaria may be high in all countries in East Africa , including cities. See your health care provider for a prescription antimalarial drug. For details concerning risk and preventive medications, see Malaria Information for Travelers to East Africa .
• Meningococcal (meningitis) if you plan to visit countries in this region that experience epidemics of meningococcal disease during December through June, (see Map 4-9 on the Meningococcal Disease page ).
• Rabies , pre-exposure vaccination, if you might have extensive unprotected outdoor exposure in rural areas, such as might occur during camping, hiking, or bicycling, or engaging in certain occupational activities.
• Typhoid vaccine. Typhoid fever can be contracted through contaminated drinking water or food, or by eating food or drinking beverages that have been handled by a person who is infected. Large outbreaks are most often related to fecal contamination of water supplies or foods sold by street vendors
• Yellow fever , a viral disease that occurs primarily in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America , is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The virus is also present in Panama and Trinidad and Tobago . Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travelers to endemic areas and may be required to cross certain international borders (For country specific requirements, see Yellow Fever Vaccine Requirements and Information on Malaria Risk and Prophylaxis, by Country .). Vaccination should be given 10 days before travel and at 10 year intervals if there is on-going risk.
• As needed, booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria , measles , and a one-time dose of polio vaccine for adults.

Required Vaccinations

• Yellow fever , a viral disease that occurs primarily in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America , is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The virus is also present in Panama and Trinidad and Tobago . Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travelers to endemic areas and may be required to cross certain international borders. Vaccination should be given 10 days before travel and at 10 year intervals if there is on-going risk.

Source: www.cdc.gov

What health precautions should I be aware of and tend to?

Carry a first aid kit and have contact phone numbers with you. Generally, always make sure to wash your hands before and after you eat, drink lots of water, and eat food that was prepared as sanitarily as possible. One of the main problems in Tanzania is Malaria, so bring anti-Malaria medication and always wear insect repellent. Furthermore, make sure to get all the vaccines suggested above, and never have unprotected sex.

Do I need health insurance?

Global Crossroad takes out comprehensive medical insurance for its volunteers. Western medicine is widely available in most urban areas in Tanzania . So, your health insurance is crucial. It is suggested that you pay up-front costs and then file an insurance claim to get reimbursed back home after medical expenses such as doctor's visits, medicines, etc. For some larger expenses, the insurance company may be able to arrange direct payment to the hospital or medical provider, but this is rare. 

Who do I contact in case of a health-related emergency?

East or west, home is the best. There is no place better than home when you are ill. But if you do get ill, don't panic. Participants can obtain information pertaining to medical assistance through a number of channels:

• Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator;
• Assigned host-family;
• Your country's embassy in Tanzania – participants are greatly encouraged to obtain and maintain contact information for their respective embassy; keeping it on their person for easy access.

Is the food safe if I buy it from a street vendor?

No, probably not! While you are in Tanzania , food safety should be the major factor in your decision to abstain. You can hardly resist the tempting novelty of street vendors and their food variety. Our suggestion is to avoid eating on the streets until you get familiar with the general situation. The food will likely taste quite different than anything you have had before. Food safety problems can range from chemicals and contaminants, to bacteria as well as some other diseases. In Tanzania , poor food cooking, preparation, and storage, as well as improper cleaning and disinfecting of cooking supplies is very common among street vendors. So, we do not suggest buying food from street vendors.

What are the sanitary conditions in Tanzania ?

• Be prepared and never expect a clean toilet 100% of the time. Carry some tissue in-case you need to use the public toilet. Also, there may be no Western-style toilet or any toilet paper at all.
• In some areas/restaurants, toilet systems are old and have very narrow plumbing and get blocked easily.
• Use hotel lobby toilets; these are everywhere and are always clean. Still, they may not always have toilet paper. It depends on the class of hotel that you are using.

Money

Are ATMs easily available? If yes, which debit and credit cards are accepted?

Credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, JCB, Master and Visa are accepted at the local large hotels or tourist stores. You also can withdraw cash from most international banks' ATM machines, but $2-4 USD surcharges apply for each transaction. Exercise caution with ATMS since they are a common for criminals to target – don't use them at night if you can, and try to only use machines that are either inside a building or in a well populated place. Obviously, in rural villages there will be no ATMs or banks, so in these cases you'll need to carry cash on you.

What is the local currency and how do I know the exchange rate?

The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).

Money exchanges can be made at various banks and at the airport. Current exchange rates can be found using a website like www.xe.com or looking in a newspaper like the Wall Street Journal.

Where do I exchange my money and how much?

You may exchange money at the airport, banks, and some tourist places. You could also just use your ATM card at a bank ATM, and procure currency that way. Most major international credit cards, including Visa and MasterCard, are accepted in the main tourist establishments, although outside the cities, facilities are limited. Traveler's checks may also be difficult to exchange in small towns and villages, and travelers are advised to have cash on hand. ATMs are available in the main cities.

How much money should I bring with me?

Carrying extra money depends on your personal spending habits, and you may want some extra money for personal expenses, sight-seeing, souvenirs, etc. Generally speaking, we recommend bringing about $ 250.00 (USD), or just bring your credit card. Some volunteers tend to use quite a lot of money on souvenirs. Therefore, you should budget some money for these kinds of souvenirs and adventure programs if you wish to join them.

Is it safe to carry cash with me?

Carrying cash is not safe; therefore, don't carry a large surplus of cash with you.

Important Reminder: Retain your receipts whenever you exchange any currency or traveler's checks to Rands . You may be asked to show proof of the exchange. Without receipts, you will not be able to exchange The Tanzanian currency back to any other currency upon your departure.

How do I make contact with Global Crossroad's local coordinator?

You will receive the detailed contact information of the coordinator with your placement details.

How do I contact my family once I arrive in Tanzania ?

International Direct Dialing from Tanzania is available in cities. Phone cards are widely available and calls can be made from post offices, hotels and booths on the streets. In hotels, local calls are generally charged at a nominal fee. Internet cafes are available in most towns although they can sometimes be noisy as they are a popular spot for the youth to play online games. You can use any type of communication to call back home.

Are internet services easily available?

There is 24h internet line in the Dar Es Salaam . There is no internet in Masai land. However, there is internet service in most of cities.

How can my family members contact me?

Once you settle down at the host family, you will want to use your calling card to contact your family if you have not already done so when you arrived in Tanzania at the airport. Of course, they call also email you and you can reply using internet café services.

Can I bring my telephone from my home country?

Cell phones may or may not work: you'll want to contact your cell phone provider to make sure that your phone will work while you are in Tanzania . You can use most mobile handsets with a local SIM card.

Can I purchase phone service once I arrive in Tanzania and how much will it cost?

This is not usually an option in Tanzania .

Is there a special dress code that I should follow while staying in Tanzania ?

Tanzanian culture is partially Islamic and therefore, you should never wear revealing clothing (try to cover your shoulders at all times and don't wear skirts or shorts that are higher than knee-length).

What should I know about Tanzanian religious conduct?

Tanzania respects different cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and moral concepts. You may practice on your own accord. Remember to be respectful of Tanzanian customs and traditions while traveling: in particular, respect for elders is important, as you'll learn on orientation. Moreover, Masai tribes are common targets for photo-hungry tourists and you should always ask before photographing – you may have to pay them a small fee to photograph them.

How do I respect the Tanzanian people?

Be more inclusive and show respect of other cultures. Tanzanian culture is rich in customs and traditions. The Tanzanian people enjoy sharing their customs and traditions with foreigners so feel free to take part with them. You can go with your host family on outings if they ask you to or invite them along with you to go on an outing. Simply helping your family do household chores will be another bonding experience that you can enjoy.

Additional Information

Climate

What is weather like in Tanzania ?

Remember, Tanzanian weather depends completely upon where you are in the country – for example, coastal areas like Dar Es Salaam can be extremely hot and humid. On the other hand, areas in the north and west can become quite chilly in the evenings.

Required Clothing

Lightweight clothing and rainwear is recommended as well as warmer clothing for the evenings (light jacket and/or light sweaters), and warmer cloths if you plan to travel during the colder months. A solid pair of walking shoes is highly recommended for trekking.

Average Temperature

Average Rainfall

Official Tanzanian Holidays

2008
1 Jan New Year's Day.
12 Jan Zanzibar Revolution Day. 
20 Mar Birth of the Prophet.
21 Mar  Good Friday. 
24 Mar  Easter Monday.
26 Apr Union Day.
1 May International Labor Day.
7 Jul Saba Saba (Industry's Day).
8 Aug Nane Nane (Farmer's Day).
2 Oct Eid al-Fitr (Ramadan).
14 Oct Nyerere Day.
9 Dec Independence and Republic Day.
9 Dec Eid al-Kebir.
25 Dec Christmas Day.
26 Dec Boxing Day.

What about tipping in Tanzania ?

Tipping is expected everywhere, and service workers are paid the lowest minimum wages because their employers expect them to get by on tips.

Materials to Bring

We appreciate if the volunteers bring new or used toys and clothes for the orphans.

•  Day pack
•  Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
•  Sandals
•  2 pairs of pants (lightweight)
•  2 T-shirts
•  3 short-sleeved shirts
•  2 long-sleeved shirt
•  3 pairs of shorts and bathing suit
•  Hat or cap
•  Towel and personal bath kit
•  Sun block, sun glasses
•  Camera
•  Camping equipment if you plan on visiting or working in Masai Land, as well as Mosquito net.

NOTE: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) is generic information and should not be used as a definitive travel guide. Travel information and situations abroad change constantly. Participants should consult Global Crossroad or travel advisors to verify this information.